Meeting Summary
Present: 3-Hartmann, Gatz, 4-Nelson, 5-Lavagnino, Williams
This summary was AI-generated to save you time. It may miss or misstate details, so verify against the official recording and the transcript.
At a glance
Ceremony in Recognition of Elected Officials for 2022
- The Board honored officials elected or re-elected in 2022 with a ceremony featuring the Fire Department Honor Guard and musical performances.
- Outgoing and incoming Chairs provided statements, followed by remarks from various county elected officials.
- A representative from the Governor’s Office addressed the Board regarding climate crisis initiatives and proposed a countywide Climate Action Corps partnership.
CEO’s Report and Emergency Management Update
- Staff reported on local emergency response to recent storms, noting disaster recovery centers opened in North and South County.
- The county received Stafford Act reimbursement approval for critical infrastructure repair, with over 1,000 residents registering for FEMA assistance.
- Staff clarified FEMA eligibility rules for unpermitted structures and indicated a long-term recovery plan similar to the Thomas Fire plan would be presented.
Administrative Item 31: Resolution of Commendation
- The Board considered a resolution honoring Ray A. Munoz for his 38 years of service to the Sheriff’s Office.
- A Sheriff’s Office representative and Munoz himself spoke regarding his contributions to logistics and fleet maintenance.
- The resolution was read into the record and subsequently adopted.
Administrative Item 32: Black History Month Resolution
- The Board considered a resolution proclaiming February 2023 as Black History Month, highlighting the theme of "Black Resistance."
- Representatives from Juneteenth Santa Barbara and Planned Parenthood California Central Coast spoke in support of the resolution.
- The Board adopted the resolution, with the Chair recommending the reading of W.E.B. Du Bois’ History of Reconstruction.
Administrative Item 13: State of Emergency
- The Board reviewed recommendations regarding the circumstances of the existing state of emergency.
- A motion to approve the staff recommendation was made and seconded.
- The item passed with a 4-1 vote.
Departmental Item 1: Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara – TEFRA Hearing for Brisa Encina Apartments
- Staff presented a TEFRA hearing for tax-exempt multifamily housing revenue obligations for the Brisa Encina Apartments project.
- The project involves a 49-unit new construction complex in Mission Hills housing formerly homeless veterans and special needs clients.
- The Board approved the staff recommendation, noting the county incurs no moral or legal obligation for debt repayment.
Departmental Item 2: Office of County Counsel – Extra Help Service and Retirement Waiver
- The Office of County Counsel requested certification to rehire retired Senior Deputy Maria Novat as an extra help employee.
- The rehire is intended to support the Emergency Operations Center and other emergency work for nine months to one year.
- The Board approved the staff recommendation to certify the critical need for this rehire.
Departmental Item 3: County Executive Office – Thomas Fire and 1-9 Debris Flow Five-Year Recovery Update
- Staff presented a video update on five years of recovery from the Thomas Fire and the 2018 debris flow, highlighting infrastructure repairs and debris removal.
- Board members discussed recent Assembly hearings on "ArcStorm" scenarios and the role of schools as safe havens.
- The Board voted to receive and file the recovery update report.
Departmental Item 4: Fire Department – Gaviota Coast Community Wildfire Protection Plan
- The County Fire Marshal presented the Gaviota Coast Community Wildfire Protection Plan, funded by a California Climate Investment Program grant.
- The plan covers approximately 106,000 acres and includes recommendations for vegetation management, structural hardening, and community outreach.
- The Board adopted the plan and determined that its adoption does not require CEQA review.
Renew 22 Summary Report (Fiscal Years 2017–2022) and Transition to RENEW
- Staff presented a five-year summary of the Renew 22 initiative, highlighting achievements in financial resiliency, energy efficiency, and digital service migration.
- The report noted a 62% decrease in juveniles supervised by Probation and the expansion of the county’s electric vehicle fleet.
- The Board received and filed the report, noting the initiative's transition to an ongoing program called "Renew."
Closed Session
- The Board convened in closed session to consider the appointment or reappointment of the General Services Director.
- No reportable action was taken during this session.
Full summary
Closed Session – Public Employee Appointment/Reappointment (General Services Director)
- The Board convened in closed session to consider the appointment or reappointment of the General Services Director. No reportable action was taken.
Ceremony in Recognition of Elected Officials for 2022
- The Board held a ceremony to honor officials elected or re-elected in 2022. The program included the presentation of colors and the Pledge of Allegiance by the Santa Barbara County Fire Department’s Honor Guard, an invocation by Associate Rabbi Daniel Brenner, and musical and poetic performances. Statements were provided by outgoing Chair Joan Hartman and incoming Chair Doss Williams. The following elected officials were introduced and provided statements: Dr. Susan Salcido (County Superintendent of Schools), Bill Brown (Sheriff/Coroner), Harry Hagen (Treasurer/Tax Collector/Public Administrator), Joseph E. Holland (Clerk/Recorder/Assessor), Betsy Schaefer (Auditor-Controller), John Sabernock (District Attorney), Laura Capps (Supervisor, 2nd District), and Steve Lavagnino (Supervisor, 5th District). Josh Friday, California’s Chief Service Officer, was introduced as the keynote speaker. A representative from the Governor’s Office addressed the Board regarding climate crisis initiatives and proposed a partnership for a countywide Climate Action Corps. No motions were moved or voted upon during this segment.
Approval of Minutes
- A motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes from the January 24, 2023 meeting. Outcome: Passed.
CEO’s Report and Emergency Management Update
- The CEO and the Director of Emergency Management reported on local emergency response to recent storms. Disaster recovery centers opened on January 28 in North and South County, offering interpreter services and operating seven days a week. The county was approved for all categories of Stafford Act reimbursement for critical infrastructure repair. Over 1,000 residents registered for FEMA assistance, with $1.2 million approved to date. Staff noted resources available on the ReadySBC website, the 805 UndocuFund for undocumented residents, a February 22 deadline for expedited unemployment assistance, and temporary closures of the South County recovery center. Board members inquired about long-term recovery strategies for specific areas and FEMA denials for unpermitted structures. Staff indicated that a recovery plan similar to the Thomas Fire plan would be presented to the Board and that the FEMA Legal Aid Group is available to assist residents. Staff clarified that FEMA generally requires structures to be dwelling units for homeowner assistance, but renters in unpermitted units may be eligible if verified as their permanent living situation.
Clerk’s Announcements and Agenda Changes
- The Clerk announced that Administrative Item 22 was requested to be continued to February 28, 2023. An addendum was posted amending the administrative agenda to include specific language regarding CEQA exemptions for emergency projects damaged by fire, flood, or storm. The Chair noted that several items were pulled by the public (A3, A20, A22, A25, A29, A31, A32) and decided to address resolutions first.
Administrative Item 31: Resolution of Commendation
- The Board considered a resolution honoring Ray A. Munoz upon his retirement from the Sheriff’s Office after 38 years of service. The resolution was read into the record. A representative from the Sheriff’s Office spoke about Munoz’s contributions to logistics and fleet maintenance. Munoz addressed the Board, expressing gratitude for his colleagues and mentioning his future plans. Outcome: Passed and adopted.
Administrative Item 32: Black History Month Resolution
- The Board considered a resolution sponsored by Supervisors Capps and Nelson proclaiming February 2023 as Black History Month in Santa Barbara County. The resolution highlighted the 2023 theme of "Black Resistance" and the history of civil rights struggles. A representative from Juneteenth Santa Barbara thanked the Board. Supervisors Capps and Nelson spoke about the importance of the resolution and local events. The Chair recommended reading W.E.B. Du Bois’ History of Reconstruction. A representative from Planned Parenthood California Central Coast supported the resolution and emphasized the ongoing need to address systemic health disparities affecting Black women. Outcome: Passed and adopted by unanimous vote.
Administrative Item 3: Library Advisory Committee Appointments
- The Board considered recommendations regarding the appointment of City of Buellton and City of Solvang representatives to the County Library Advisory Committee. Public comment was received regarding personal interactions with a Solvang official and alleged issues regarding blacklisting and corruption. This item was included in the subsequent consent calendar motion.
Administrative Item 20: Desalination Project Participation
- The Board considered a resolution approving participation in a desalination executable solution and logistics plan with the San Luis Obispo County Flood Control and Water Conservation District. Staff explained that San Luis Obispo County is in the initial planning phase of a four-phase desalination project and is soliciting information from stakeholders. Santa Barbara County’s participation would signal interest in potentially receiving water from this project in the future, with no financial commitment required at this stage. Supervisors discussed the importance of diversifying water sources, including recycled water and state water. Public comment was received suggesting various water infrastructure ideas. This item was included in the subsequent consent calendar motion.
Administrative Item 13: State of Emergency
- The Board considered recommendations regarding the circumstances of the existing state of emergency. A motion to approve the staff recommendation was made and seconded. Outcome: Passed (4-1).
Administrative Item 22: Village Square Subdivision TR 14608
- The Board considered recommendations regarding the Village Square Subdivision TR 14608, specifically offsite storm drain improvements. Staff clarified that the agreement covers offsite storm drain improvements for the west side of the Los Alamos community, totaling approximately 3,800 linear feet and costing $2.4 million, funded entirely by the developer. Staff explained that 85% of the drainage area served is offsite, making it a regional improvement. Public comment was received regarding the continuance date and the property owner’s agent expressed willingness to continue the item to allow staff to respond to public questions. The item was continued to February 28, 2023, as part of the consent calendar motion.
Administrative Item 25: Workforce Development Board Appointments
- The Board considered recommendations regarding appointments and reappointments to the Workforce Development Board. A scheduled speaker could not be reached. This item was included in the subsequent consent calendar motion.
Administrative Item 29: Commission for Women Reappointment
- The Board considered the approval of the reappointment of Alice in Wales to the Commission for Women, term ending December 31, 2025. Public comment was received regarding interest in female leadership. This item was included in the subsequent consent calendar motion.
Consent Calendar
- A motion was made and seconded to approve Administrative Items A1 through A32, excluding A13 (which was voted on separately) and including the continuance of A22 to February 28. Outcome: Passed.
General Public Comment
- The Clerk noted four requests to speak. Two individuals were not logged into Zoom. The meeting proceeded to the next scheduled speakers, E-Planet Thunderstriker and McCullough Lynch. An unidentified speaker addressed the board regarding a conditional vice-presidential candidacy, citing concerns about mass shootings, incarceration rates, sex trafficking, and corruption. Michael Lynch commented on the morning’s ceremony, thanking the board. As the local organizer for the Women’s March in Santa Barbara, Lynch stated they were speaking for themselves rather than the attendees. Lynch commended the board’s focus on homelessness and housing, noting that these issues impact the entire population. Lynch also addressed the situation in Iran, describing it as a free speech issue where residents are silenced and lack internet access, and expressed gratitude for the county’s support of the issue.
Departmental Item 1: Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara – TEFRA Hearing for Brisa Encina Apartments
- Staff from the Treasurer Tax Collector Public Administrator presented a hearing to consider recommendations regarding the issuance of tax-exempt multifamily housing revenue obligations for the Brisa Encina Apartments. The presenter explained that this is a TEFRA hearing under the Internal Revenue Code, allowing qualified nonprofits to access municipal markets. The Housing Authority is the issuer, and Brisa Encina Limited Partnership is the borrower. The county incurs no moral or legal obligation for debt repayment, and the action does not affect the county’s credit rating. Frank Thompson, representing Brisa Encina, described the project as a 49-unit new construction apartment complex in Mission Hills at 1498 Burton Mesa Boulevard. The project includes housing for 12 formerly homeless veterans and other special needs clients at low-income rental rates. Thompson noted that the project is fully approved for land use and that the team is working with Communify to include a Head Start program. Board members discussed the project’s development with neighbor input and its role in serving special needs clients. A motion was made by Supervisor Nelson to approve the staff recommendation, seconded by Supervisor Hartman. Outcome: Passed.
Departmental Item 2: Office of County Counsel – Extra Help Service and Retirement Waiver
- Michelle Montes, Division Chief with the Office of County Counsel, requested board certification of a critical need to rehire retired Senior Deputy Maria Novat as an extra help employee. The request was due to an unexpected attorney resignation in December and the need to train a new attorney hired in December. Novat would provide assistance to support the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and other emergency work for the next nine months to one year. Supervisor Nielsen commented on the legislative provision allowing for such rehiring, noting it balances preventing "double-dipping" with the flexibility to meet operational needs. A motion was made by Supervisor Hartman to approve the staff recommendation, seconded by Supervisor Capps. Outcome: Passed.
Departmental Item 3: County Executive Office – Thomas Fire and 1-9 Debris Flow Five-Year Recovery Update
- Staff presented a video update covering the last five years of recovery from the Thomas Fire and the January 9, 2018 debris flow. The presentation highlighted that while historic rainfall in January 2023 caused severe destruction, no lives were lost. Key points included storm preparation, flood control measures (including the Randall Road Debris Basin), rebuilding efforts (525 structures damaged or destroyed; nearly 300 approved building permits), debris removal (66 acres cleared by the "Bucket Brigade"), financials ($500 million in damage; $200 million in county infrastructure damage), infrastructure repairs (over $27 million in transportation network damage repaired), and community engagement (12,305 response hours logged by the EOC in the first month). Board members discussed recent Assembly hearings on "ArcStorm" scenarios, strategies for neighbor-to-neighbor information sharing, and the role of schools as safe havens. Supervisor Nielsen highlighted similar debris flow impacts in the Orchid area and the need to leverage FEMA funding for mitigation. A motion was made by Supervisor Nielsen to receive and file the item, seconded by Supervisor Hartman. Outcome: Passed.
Departmental Item 4: Fire Department – Gaviota Coast Community Wildfire Protection Plan
- County Fire Marshal Rob Hazzard presented the Gaviota Coast Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP), noting that the project was funded through a California Climate Investment Program grant administered by CAL FIRE. Hazzard introduced the project team and explained that CWPPs are community-developed plans designed to enhance resilience through vegetation management, structural hardening, and collaborative processes. He noted that the plan does not trigger the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process itself, but individual projects recommended by the plan will require CEQA review when implemented. The plan area covers approximately 106,000 acres, extending from Farran Road to Point Conception. Key features included hazard assessment, community input, and recommendations for vegetation management, structural ignitability improvements, community outreach, access and evacuation improvements, funding strategies, infrastructure and communications upgrades, and post-fire recovery guidelines. Hazzard discussed the Regional Wildfire Mitigation Program, a pilot project involving UCSB, County Fire, and other partners. Scott Kaufman provided additional context on the project’s history, noting it began with community interest in 2016. Supervisor Hartman moved to adopt the Gaviota Coast Community Wildfire Protection Plan and determine that its adoption does not require CEQA review. Supervisor Nelson seconded the motion. Outcome: Passed.
Renew 22 Summary Report (Fiscal Years 2017–2022) and Transition to RENEW
- The County Executive Office presented a five-year summary report of the Renew 22 initiative, which began in 2017 to transform the county organization by rethinking technology, people, processes, and community needs. The initiative is transitioning to a program simply called "Renew." A video presentation highlighted key accomplishments across several areas:
- Financial Resiliency: Departments targeted and exceeded goals of saving at least 1% of their total operating budgets.
- Energy Efficiency and Technology: The county installed solar battery microgrids, implemented building energy management systems, and expanded its electric vehicle (EV) fleet. As of the report, the county had 127 EV chargers at 13 locations and over 60 EVs in its fleet, with an additional 30 on order.
- Customer Service and Health Equity: During the pandemic, the county established a data portal for COVID-19 information and created an Office of Health Equity to support equitable service provision, including a bilingual call center and targeted outreach to underserved populations.
- Operational Redesign: The county migrated approximately 87% of its services (365 out of 417) to online or digital formats.
- Juvenile Probation: Data analysis led to program transformations, resulting in a 62% decrease in the number of juveniles supervised by the Probation Department as of October 2022.
- Staff reported that the county retained an average of 70% of new employees during their first five years, compared to a goal of 80%. Additionally, 70% of managers participated in leadership development programs, exceeding the 30% goal. Staff noted that communication and engagement efforts contributed to organizational success, including the launch of an updated public-facing website. Staff explained that since fiscal year 2020-2021, progress on "big picture" goals has been included in the budget document to increase transparency. Staff outlined the transition of the initiative from "Renew22" to "RENEW," describing it as an ongoing commitment to strengthening internal processes and practices. The revised countywide goals reflect the original focus areas of transformation and establish benchmarks for all departments. Staff indicated that future efforts will focus on systemic improvement and engaging the community to define long-term goals and strategies.
- Board members provided comments on the presentation. One Supervisor commented that the initiative helped shift focus from day-to-day operations to long-range planning and noted the significance of the transition to online services. Another Supervisor noted that the initiative influenced the budget process, leading to more thoughtful expense management aligned with established priorities. A third Supervisor compared the initiative to maintaining organizational tools, emphasizing the importance of processes and structures in addressing challenges. Staff responded by acknowledging the contributions of the executive team, the Renew steering committee, and department directors. Staff highlighted the establishment of an IT department and a Public Information Officer role as significant developments during this period. Staff stated that the next phase involves engaging the community to determine future goals and strategies. Another Supervisor noted that the presentation materials were educational for new members and emphasized the importance of the systemic approach and data-driven practices, citing juvenile justice restorative practices as an example. The Chair commented that the initiative shifted organizational culture from departmental silos to a county-wide institutional focus, improving cross-departmental collaboration and service delivery.
- A motion was made to receive and file the report. The motion was seconded. Outcome: Passed.
Adjournment
- The Board adjourned the meeting, with the next session scheduled for February 14 in Santa Maria.